News Detail

Weaver-sponsored legislation to improve and update government signed into law

8/22/2017

Springfield – Several Illinois laws and programs are getting an update, along with the launch of a new volunteer program to help clean up hiking trails, thanks to legislation sponsored by State Sen. Chuck Weaver (R-Peoria) and recently signed into law by Gov. Bruce Rauner.

House Bill 3528 modernizes the Illinois real estate educational system so that real estate agents will better trained on the most important topics for the profession, including consumer protections.

House Bill 3615 removes a portion of the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act that allowed teachers, who are under investigation for abuse, to confront their accusers. This section was in direct conflict with current practices, case law, and accepted best practices. Teachers will now only be allowed to review the investigation summary and meet with a school administrator that is not involved in the investigation.

“This is all part of my continued effort to streamline and modernize government, and to make it more efficient and accountable to everyone who calls Illinois home,” said Sen. Weaver. “These bills are also great examples of what we can accomplish as rank-and-file legislators when everyone is working together in good faith.”

Rauner also signed House Bill 3455, which creates the Adopt-A-Trail-Program that will allow groups of volunteers older than the age of 18 to adopt a public trail to help with cleanup, maintenance, and accessibility projects, as well as education and special events. The legislation was filed by State Rep. Ryan Spain in the House of Representatives and sponsored by Senator Weaver in the Illinois Senate. The legislation is already impacting work to be done by volunteers at Jubilee Park.

“This program will allow us to improve the conditions of our state’s natural areas at little to no cost. It’s a win-win for nature lovers and taxpayers,” said Sen. Weaver. “I would like to thank Representative Spain for his leadership in helping to spearhead this legislation and move it forward in the House.”